Techniques for Illustrators: Monoprinting at Home

Flex your drawing and art skills with monoprinting basics

Monoprinting offers a world of creativity and innovation for illustrators. On this flexible learning course from Leeds Art University, gain practical printmaking techniques that you can apply in real time to your art portfolio.

From the comfort of your home studio, you’ll explore sketching, develop your linework, and learn to create textured, one-of-a-kind prints using simple materials.

By the end of the course, you’ll have refined your skills in monoprinting, ready to elevate your artistic practice.

Delve into sketchbooking

You’ll begin this course with a place most illustrators start: the sketchbook. You’ll learn to utilise this stage for exploring ideas, experimenting with different techniques, and laying the foundation for your monoprinting journey.

Learn the art of linework

Then, you’ll explore the principles of creating basic monotype prints, delving into the drawing tools and techniques to bring your lines to life. You’ll also practice adding tone and texture, enhancing your prints with depth and visual interest.

Perfect your printmaking

During the final weeks, you’ll refine your monoprinting techniques. You’ll be guided through printing from the plate, using acrylic and household materials to create texture and depth in your prints.

As you experiment with stencils and cardboard, you’ll learn to mask off areas and create bold, graphic shapes, as well as repurpose household items like cereal boxes and milk cartons to create unique printing plates.

This online art course is designed for aspiring illustrators, art enthusiasts, and hobbyists eager to explore the creative techniques of monoprinting.

Whether you’re a beginner eager to flex your art skills or an experienced creator seeking new approaches to visual storytelling, this online art class offers inspiration and guidance to unlock your creative potential.

• A4 piece of Acrylic
• Loose pieces of A4 Paper
• A sketchbook (Aim for A5/A4)
• Rubber roller
• Block printing Ink
• Regular Drawing tools (Pencil, pens)
• Mark-making materials (e.g. scourer, sponge or toothbrush)
• Craft Knife / Scissors

Most of these items can be found online or in your local arts and crafts store

This online art course is designed for aspiring illustrators, art enthusiasts, and hobbyists eager to explore the creative techniques of monoprinting.

Whether you’re a beginner eager to flex your art skills or an experienced creator seeking new approaches to visual storytelling, this online art class offers inspiration and guidance to unlock your creative potential.

• Describe the fundamental principles of monoprinting
• Explore how printmaking technique differs from other forms of printmaking
• Practice monoprinting using simple, accessible materials at home
• Develop skills to design and cut stencils, experiment with ink application, and use various drawing tools
• Contribute to your drawing and design abilities by incorporating monoprint techniques into your creative practice